CNN Answers 11 Burning Questions from Car Buyers

It's never been easy to buy a car, but with soaring gas prices consumers now have a lot more questions to ask. Fortunately, CNN has the answers. They cover everything from how to choose a hybrid to how to unload an SUV.

First up: How do I get a deal on a conventional car with decent fuel economy?

Answer: First consult fueleconomy.gov to narrow your list of potential cars based on mileage. Stick with vehicles going for less than sticker, generally those in the 30-mpg-and-under range.

Next, e-mail Internet managers at up to eight local dealers, telling them about that quote and asking if they can beat it. (These people usually cut to the chase fast.) Go for a second round with your new low. Ideally you'll end up under Blue Book Value.

And if consumers want to know about their diesel options? Tell them diesel is 20 to 40 percent more efficient than gas. But you'll pay a minimum $1,000 premium on these cars.

To see if diesel would make sense, the consumer can use the "Side-by-Side Comparison" tool at fueleconomy.gov, entering in local gas and diesel prices. Click here for more answers to tough car buying questions.